Shaw High School’s 11th- and 12th-grade young men heard from Morehouse College Director of Admissions Michael D. Gumm today during an assembly focused on overcoming personal barriers to success.
Gumm spoke to students about internal obstacles that limit achievement, including fear, procrastination and negative self-talk.
“You are powerful beyond measure,” Gumm said. “But too many of you are standing in your own way. When you change your mindset, you change your future.”
Gumm shared stories from his own experience and told students that adversity does not define destiny unless someone allows it to. He emphasized discipline, focus and taking ownership of choices.
The admissions director called on students to stop waiting and doubting while beginning the work required for personal growth.
Teachers and administrators said students engaged with the message, with many leaning in and nodding during the presentation.
Several students said they felt renewed motivation regarding academic goals and post-secondary plans after hearing Gumm speak.
One senior called the speech “a wake-up call that hit me at the right time.” Another student said Gumm “made me think differently about myself… like I can actually do this.”
Shaw High School administrators praised Gumm for his authenticity and dedication to empowering young men to pursue higher education.
“Mr. Gumm didn’t just speak to our students,” one administrator said. “He spoke into them.”
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